Custom 5th Wheel Brackets for a 2011 Ford F-150 5-1/2 Foot Bed with Reese Rails and Hitch

Question:

I have a Reese fifth wheel and I believe Reese rails. I am going to be using the quick custom mounting brackets for my Ford F-150 with a 5'6" bed. How far should the back rail be from the back end of the bed?

asked by: Tim

Expert Reply:

For a 2011 Ford F-150 with 5-1/2 foot bed and Reese 5th wheel rails you would need custom brackets # RP50081. With this kit the instructions, linked for you, state to measure from the rear edge of the bed, not the tailgate, forward 50-15/16 inches. This is where the back edge of the FRONT rail will be. You would then use the hitch to place the rear rail.

You will also need hardware kit # RP58430 since none of the rail hardware is meant to be reused.

With the 5-1/2 foot bed you will also need to use a Sidewinder to be able to have clearance when making tight turns. I have included a link to our Sidewinder informational article for you.

I also recommend installing a 7-Way connector, # 41157, in the bed of the truck to make hooking up the trailer easier.

expert reply by: Michael H